Open day and blessing at Killeigh Community Centre

The spirit of community was on full display recently when people gathered in large numbers for a special open day and blessing ceremony at Killeigh Community Centre.

Families, community groups, local representatives and visitors from across the area came together on Sunday, September 27, to celebrate the centre's contribution to village life.

The event marked an important milestone for the centre, which continues to serve as a hub for local activities, social gatherings, community events as well as being a fantastic location for company training days and presentations.

Having been developed on the site of the former Macra hall, the community centre has been in operation since 2024.

A packed programme of entertainment got the recent open day celebrations underway, beginning with musical performances by locals James Maher on piano; Evan Curling on acoustic guitar; and local traditional musicians Druher. Their performances delighted the large audience and showcased the rich musical talent of the area.

The formal blessing ceremony was led jointly by Fr Stapleton and Rev. Murphy, reflecting the strong community spirit and inclusivity that characterises life in Killeigh. Attendees joined in prayer and were reminded by Father Stapleton and Rev. Murphy of the centre’s role in providing a place of welcome and connection for people of all ages.

Following the blessing, Killeigh Community Centre Development Association (KCCDA) Chairperson, Úna McCafferkey spoke to attendees about the importance of local people becoming involved in the running and future development of the community centre.

Ms McCafferkey outlined the committee's ambition to appoint a dedicated centre manager in the near future, explaining that funding through Pobal's Community Services Programme would be essential in making this a reality. She expressed hope that the organisation's current funding application would be successful.

During her address, Úna paid tribute to both past and present members of the committee for their dedication, commitment and hard work since the committee was formed in late 2018.

She acknowledged the invaluable support provided by committee members' families and the local community whose encouragement and assistance have helped sustain the centre's activities.

Úna also referred to the remarkable transformation of the once-derelict Mara Hall, which has been given a new lease of life and has become a tremendous asset to the village of Killeigh.

Encouraging residents to make full use of the facility, she highlighted the centre's multi-functional nature and stressed the importance of its accessibility, ensuring it is a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone in the community.

The entertainment continued throughout the afternoon with performances from pupils of Killeigh NS, whose musical contributions were warmly received by the audience. Acclaimed local musician Dubh Lee (Niamh Dooley) also performed, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The day's programme concluded with a lively display from dancers of the McEvoy School of Irish Dancing, accompanied by members of Killeigh Comhaltas. Their energetic performance brought the event to a fitting close and highlighted the depth of amazing local talent within the community.

Pupils of Killeigh NS participated in a colouring competition to mark the occasion, with dozens of fantastic entries proudly displayed in the centre's social room. Local students Orla Duignan and Amber Tessa Doyle were announced on the day as the competition winners.

Recent pieces from the Heritage Week 'Killeigh Told Through Visual Stories' exhibition were also proudly displayed, as were old photographs of years gone by. The open day highlighted the vital role that Killeigh Community Centre plays in bringing people together and providing a suitable location for a wide variety of activities.

KCCDA extended its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the day, including performers, volunteers, organisers and attendees. The committee was overwhelmed by the fantastic response from the local community and visitors alike.

The busy weekend at the centre began on the Friday night, September 25, when it hosted the launch of the Offaly Active Age Week 'Rambling House' and once again the full house was entertained by the family of the late John Brady senior, with music, song and storytelling.

The event was a fitting tribute to the great composer and traditional musician. The extended Brady family was also joined on stage by local singers Evan Curling, Anne Vickers, the Killeigh Choir, Pat and Pauric Maguire, Francis Kawala and Johnny Butterfield.

The step dancers from Durrow also made an appearance, which was a lovely treat for all.

For more details on Killeigh Community Centre, see its social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) or visit: www.killeighcommunitycentre.com